Julia Thalin’s Post

"Is the expected surge in far-right vote pushing women to be more politically active?" If you've been watching Euronews since yesterday, you might have spotted me giving my two cents on the anti-gender movement and the EU elections. This interview comes off the back of research that Cecilia Francisco Carcelén, Eleonora del Vecchio and I have done on gender equality ahead of the elections in collaboration with Oxfam France. Find the report here: https://lnkd.in/dpkE6U-D We noted that "the growing backlash against gender equality across Europe can be seen internally through the growing electoral success and representation of far-right populist groups in countries such as Sweden, Italy and the Netherlands." One part of the interview (which has been cut in editing) was that for many women, the EU institutions remain an abstract irrelevance to their lives and this finding was highlighted in the Eurobarometer survey in 2019 whereby women were more likely to state that the lack of knowledge about the European Parliament was the reason why they didn't vote. This indicates that there is a gender dimension to the information gap of the EU towards citizens. Meanwhile, the feminist movement faces an uphill battle in tackling disinformation peddled by anti-gender networks who are harnessing generative AI technology and algorithmic bias to create social media campaigns and bots. They have a wealth of resources to tap into while we do not. Another question I was asked was whether I thought having more women in power regardless of their political beliefs will empower other women. My response: "To an extent, yes, but the real question is which women will it empower and will a centre-right or far-right agenda benefit women from disadvantaged backgrounds?" There can be no denying that Ursula Von Der Leyen’s time as President of the European Commission has resulted in significant progress in advancing gender equality in key directives on work-life balance, pay transparency and women’s representation on boards but much of these issues are far removed from the day-to-day realities of most women. Ursula Von Der Leyen comes from a very privileged background and it could be argued that her strategic priorities for gender equality during this mandate reflect that. While I do believe that we should be striving for gender parity in decision-making spaces, it would be disingenuous to claim that this will solve all our gender inequality woes. What we really need is feminist leadership which can be done by any person of any gender. Watch the video below ⬇ and you can read the full EuroNews article where Cecilia Francisco Carcelén and Eleonora del Vecchio are also featured here: https://lnkd.in/dTHATnQf

As we publish our statement on the #EUelections2024, it is clear that we are at a pivotal moment in the fight for gender equality and women's rights in Europe. Although the elections occurred on June 9th, the urgency of our call to action remains critical. The gains we have made in advancing gender equality are at risk, and we must continue to build on this progress. Our statement sets the tone for the next five years of advocacy, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining a strong focus on these issues in a challenging political landscape. Now, more than ever, we must ensure that the momentum for gender equality and the eradication of gender-based violence remains unwavering. Read the statement here: https://lnkd.in/d-9Xw59P #endVAWG #FeministFuture

JUST PUBLISHED 🆕: As a new European Commission is sworn in, there are worrying signs that women’s participation and influence in the European Parliament is waning. Despite women occupying the top jobs at the European Parliament and Commission, new research from ODI Europe’s Aline Burni reveals a downward trend in women’s influence in parliamentary committees. In parallel to this, the increased representation of far-right MEPs, including in the Women’s Rights and Gender Equality committees is another concerning trend that threatens progressive and gender equality policies. Read more of this analysis on the gender composition of the European Parliament here: https://lnkd.in/efDfR7bi European Parliament, Hivos, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, European Women's Lobby, IPPF European Network, The Brussels Binder, Young Feminist Europe, CONCORD, Equipop #GenderEquality #WomenInPolitics #EuropeanParliament #WomenRights #WalkingTheTalk

“A full review of the National Curriculum must be undertaken to identify and eliminate Gender bias. A review of the enactment of the curriculum in each State is undertaken to identify opportunities for gender mainstreaming and elimination of bias and to ensure that education around gender role formation, human rights, consent, sexual harassment, sexuality, reproductive rights, sexual health, period education and products is effective.” - Australian Gender Equality Council Will the strategy to achieve gender equality deliver measurable outcomes? Will it help to target sexism in schools where it can take hold? Katy Gallagher Jason Clare MP Jane Caro AM Women's Agenda

Unlocking Women's Political Representation: Addressing the Disparity in Somaliland Elections" In the recent parliamentary and presidential elections in Somaliland, women exhibited significant voting participation, showcasing their active engagement in shaping the political landscape. Despite this positive turnout, zero women were elected to represent the people. This stark absence raises critical questions about gender equality, representation, and the barriers that hinder women from attaining political office. It is crucial to bridge the gap between women's active civic participation and their limited presence in elected positions. Addressing systemic barriers, promoting gender equality, and creating a more inclusive political environment are essential steps towards unlocking women's full potential in political leadership. Let's work towards a future where women are not just active voters but also key decision-makers in shaping a more representative and equitable society. #WomenInPolitics #SomalilandElections #RepresentationMatters

📢 The results are in from the Victorian #LocalGovernment elections, and unfortunately, Victoria is falling short of the 50:50by2025 gender parity on local councils target set by the Victorian Government. 💥 Why does this matter? I believe lifting gender equality in local government representation matters to us. Diverse perspectives result in better-informed decisions, especially when it comes to the hundreds of local government issues affecting our communities. When we have women, young people, and folk from culturally diverse, First Nation, and LGBTIQA+ backgrounds at the table, we see more inclusive and effective leadership. ↪️ What's the update? According to today's analysis from the ABC, women now make up just 43% of councillors. This remains essentially the same as the results of the last council election in 2020. I am concerned that this stagnation underscores a broader challenge, especially in rural areas. The gender gap persists in rural councils. Seven councils have only one woman councillor, known as 'fragile councils, as they are at risk of reverting to all-male leadership. These include Alpine, Gannawarre, Hindmarsh, Loddon, Swan Hill, Towong and Yarra Ranges. On the positive side, many metropolitan councils have got close to gender balance, and 11 regional councils now have a female majority (up from just four in 2020). Additionally, Victoria no longer has any male-only councils, with Mansfield gaining two female councillors. Here in Victoria, we must continue to strive for gender equality in local politics. These recent council election results show that more needs to be done as we progress toward balanced and diverse representation. Our council chambers need to include not just more women but more people from diverse backgrounds. Congratulations to all Councillors elected to Victoria's 78 councils in these elections. I also acknowledge the work of organisations Women for Election, Pathways to Politics for Women, and ALGWA VIC, which continue to deliver exceptional programs equipping women to stand for office and mentoring support for women incumbents to help them stay in office. I look forward to the review of the results announced by Minister for Local Government Melissa Horne, who told the ABC, "We have been clear through our Gender Equality Strategy that gender representation in local government should be 50/50, and if this hasn't been achieved, the government will review the results to see what more needs to be done." 👇Read more at this link from the ABC https://lnkd.in/ecuwhpSF #WomenInPolitcs #LocalCouncil #LocalGovernment

📢 The European Institute for Gender Equality released a new report on gender equality in the European Parliament and national parliaments ahead of the 2024 elections. This report highlights the strides made and the challenges that still remain. 🔍 Key Findings: 1. European Parliament Achievements: * Gender parity was almost reached following the May 2019 elections with 41% women MEPs. * Post-Brexit restructuring and other changes saw this fall to 39%, recovering to 40% in November 2023. * The 2024 elections are a critical opportunity to push towards full parity. 2. National Parliaments Lag Behind: * Men still account for two-thirds (67%) of MPs across the EU. * Only six national parliaments have more than 40% women members, while seven have less than 25%. 3. Gender Quotas: * Ten Member States have legislative gender quotas for European elections. Belgium, France, Italy, and Luxembourg require 50% representation of each gender. * Greece and Croatia fall short of their quotas with 24% and 33% women MEPs respectively. Their report underscores the need for continued efforts to ensure equal opportunities for women in politics. As we approach the 2024 elections, let's work together to make gender parity a reality across all EU Member States! 📘 Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/gQRBGEdt #GenderEquality #WomenInPolitics #RepresentationMatters #MoreWomenInPolitics #WomenChangemakers #HerEU #EIGE #EuropeanElections2024 #GenderParity #WomenEmpowerment

Unlocking Women's Political Representation: Addressing the Disparity in Somaliland Elections" In the recent parliamentary and presidential elections in Somaliland, women exhibited significant voting participation, showcasing their active engagement in shaping the political landscape. Despite this positive turnout, zero women were elected to represent the people. This stark absence raises critical questions about gender equality, representation, and the barriers that hinder women from attaining political office. It is crucial to bridge the gap between women's active civic participation and their limited presence in elected positions. Addressing systemic barriers, promoting gender equality, and creating a more inclusive political environment are essential steps towards unlocking women's full potential in political leadership. Let's work towards a future where women are not just active voters but also key decision-makers in shaping a more representative and equitable society. #WomenInPolitics #Change #SomalilandElections #RepresentationMatters

Advocacy groups and stakeholders are spearheading a crucial dialogue on increasing the percentage of women in Nigerian politics, aiming for greater representation in the 2027 general elections. This initiative reflects a proactive step towards gender equality and inclusive governance. Wondering what it would take to get to the 35% benchmark for women’s political participation as per the National Gender Policy! #WomenInPolitics #NigeriaElection2027 #GenderEquality #PoliticalInclusion #WomensPoliticalParticipation #NationalGenderPolicy https://lnkd.in/enQnKYsH

By fostering a culture of inclusivity and breaking down the obstacles that impede women's political progress, we can create a more diverse and representative government that truly reflects the voice of the people. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, leadership training, and targeted support for female candidates can help empower women to pursue political roles with confidence and competence. Moreover, advocating for gender-balanced policies, promoting women's rights, and amplifying women's voices in political discourse are critical steps towards building a more equitable society in Somaliland. By collectively working towards dismantling the barriers to women's political representation, we can harness the full potential of our nation and drive positive change for the benefit of all. Let's continue to push for progress, challenge existing norms, and strive for a future where women hold equal power and influence in shaping the future of our country. Together, we can pave the way for a more inclusive and representative political landscape in Somaliland. #EmpowerWomen #InclusiveLeadership #GenderEquality #SomalilandProgress